WASHINGTON: A US Court of Appeals on Friday granted the Trump administration temporary authorization to enforce its ban on diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) programs has federal agencies and government contractorsoverturning an earlier decision by a Maryland judge.
THE 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals In Richmond, Virginiasaid Trump’s orders—which include requiring the Department of Justice to investigate companies with DEI policies-are probably constitutional.
However, two judges Panel members expressed concerns about potential constitutional risks of the implementation of the ban.
“Despite the vitriol that is now being leveled at DEI, people of good faith working to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion deserve praise, not opprobrium,” wrote Circuit Judge Albert Diaz.
In response, Judge Allison RushingA Appointed by Trumpcountered this political opinions should not influence court decisions.
“A judge’s opinion that DEI programs ‘deserve praise, not opprobrium’ should play absolutely no role in deciding this case,” » Rush declared.
The legal battle continues
This decision follows a complaint filed by City of Baltimore and three advocacy groupswho argue that Trump’s orders overstep presidential authority And violate the right to freedom of expression.
Previously, U.S. District Judge Adam Abelson In Baltimore had blocked the administration of enforce the ban nationwide while the trial was underway.
However, Friday decision of the court of appeal restores Trump’s ban on DEI while the administration continue his calla process that could take month.
Trump’s push against DEI
Trump’s executive orders aim to eliminate DEI initiatives in both public and private sectorsclaiming that they are promoting discrimination rather than inclusion. Its guidelines include:
- Prohibit federal agencies from funding or implementing DEI programs.
- Ban government contractors from leading DEI initiatives.
- Ask federal agencies to identify businesses, schools and nonprofits suspected of discriminatory practices in DEI policies.
THE White House and the Ministry of Justice have not yet commented on the decision. Democracy forwardA progressive legal group representing plaintiffssaid it was reviewing the decision.
Ongoing dispute over DEI contracts
THE plaintiffs accused administration of continuing to enforce DEI ban despite the precedent court injunction. Abelson held a hearing on Friday regarding these allegations, but has not yet issued a decision.
With the ban temporarily reinstatedTrump’s broader campaign to dismantle DEI programs remains a major legal and political flashpoint.
